Clare Auten That looks great. . At one year out mine is so much thicker and redder. I have been using scar away so it is at least softer.

Adam Pick Cristen, That is awesome. I'd like to feature this at our FB page if you are okay with it? I know it would debunk a lot of fears patients have about their scars. Thoughts?

Cristen Marzula Hi Adam - For the sake of other patients, and to praise the skill of my surgical team ... I would be honored! Thank you so much for this incredible site; it truly helped me each step of the way = )

This past Thursday marked 6 weeks since my complex mini-sternotomy to repair an ascending aortic aneurysm and severe unicuspid aortic valve stenosis. My follow-up appointment this past Friday with Cleveland Clinic cardiologist, Dr. Tuzcu, officially marked the very first time in 30 years that I received GREAT echocardiogram results (insert epic power ballad of Queen’s “We are the Champions”). This challenging experience has definitely been a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey. I’m incredibly fortunate for the tremendous amount of support, though I must admit that the healing process made it very difficult to stay up-to-date with my heart-valve journal and respond to an abundance of phone calls, texts, e-mails, and Facebook messages.

Before continuing my story, I feel it’s necessary to pay tribute to our heart Sister, Lisa Fuller. I initially began following Lisa’s story because we shared the surgery date of December 18th, and she was so kind to reach out to me with well wishes. Like so many members of our heart-valve community, I was deeply saddened when I read her husband John’s posts regarding the complications she endured. I can’t imagine the pain and sorrow that her family is experiencing; I will continue to keep the Fullers in my thoughts and prayers.

I honestly didn’t feel like journaling after Lisa’s death coupled with the physical pain that I was experiencing during Week 2 of recovery. In short, it was just awful! There were times that I felt like someone had literally stabbed a knife through my right shoulder blade piercing all the way through to my right breast. By Day 10, I gave up on the pain medication (Oxycodone and Tramadol) prescribed at discharge because I was sick of the opiate high that offered very little relief. Day 12 was the lowest of the lows and my first follow-up appointment at the Cleveland Clinic. I slept terribly the night before and could hardly pull myself out of bed in the morning due to the incredible pain ripping across my chest. As I stood in front of the mirror that morning, I remember feeling so frail and despondent as my heavily bruised arms just hung in utter pain and discomfort from my protruding shoulder blades and collarbone. I didn’t have much of an appetite following surgery, so the lack of nutrition really effected my healing during this time.

I really couldn’t have made it through that day, or the following weeks without my Mom’s support paired with simple, yet informative advice from an APRN. Nutrition really does make all the difference in the healing process. I was advised to replace large meals with small snacks every hour. Honey Bunches of Oats with vanilla almond milk, grapefruit, and multiple flavors of sherbet became my new best friends.

Just as I was starting to feel a little relief heading into Week 3 of recovery, I received a call from the APRN at the Cleveland Clinic regarding elevated ALT and AST liver enzymes that showed in the initial follow-up lab results. Since I didn’t have a preexisting liver disorder, I was naturally alarmed especially after reading the worst-case scenario that this could be an early sign of valve tissue failure. (Damn you, Google search!) My mom joked that I must have been feeling a lot better on Week 3's trip back to Cleveland since I had the energy to openly share my frustration and impatience with the Hepatologist. After having more blood taken than what I did prior to surgery, it was ultimately confirmed that the mild liver dysfunction was most likely due to the cardiopulmonary bypass machine and anesthesia … verse the Hepatologist’s initial cRaZy talk! On a side note, I did later apologize to the doctor for my behavior.

I’m being candid about these hardships because I want to encourage other heart-valve patients that IT WILL GET BETTER! The greatest advice I received was from my amazing surgeon. Upon our initial consolation, Dr. Roselli made it very clear to expect "bad days" during the recovery process, but to trust that the next day will be better. The other bit of simple, yet informative advice he gave was to "take it slow." It's quite easy to compare our recoveries to other patients. I didn't walk out of the ICU, and I certainly didn't jump on a treadmill 4 weeks post-op. This pain and fatigue was like nothing I’d ever experienced before … and I was trained in gymnastics by a Russian! ; )

In closing, I whole-heartedly believe that returning to Ohio to seek medical care at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic was truly the best decision I’ve made in my life. For those facing aortic valve surgery, I highly suggest watching Adam and Dr. Stewart’s Webinar “Advances in Aortic Valve & Aneurysm Treatment.” Since we only have one heart, it’s imperative to take advantage of the best healthcare available and latest technologies for treating and curing our heart disease. My next step on the road to recovery is Cardiac Rehab. I’m in awe and totally inspired by so many patients’ success stories, and I can’t wait to join that growing list!

Tammi Gunwall What a beautiful and raw post Cristen. Thank you for taking the time to share it with us. This recovery road is different for everyone but most certainly we ... Read more

Tammi Gunwall What a beautiful and raw post Cristen. Thank you for taking the time to share it with us. This recovery road is different for everyone but most certainly we all have good and "bad" days. I recall as well -standing naked in front of the mirror and feeling like I looked like road kill. It can be emotionally & physically defeating when those not-so-good days knock you off your feet. But out of no where 2 days ago, I woke up feeling like a new person! Whoa! How does that even happen?!! My praises to you for fighting the fight and making it over this major hurdle. Congratulations ♡ sister!! :)

Emily Shively Cristen, I can't believe its already been 6 weeks! Thank you for sharing your hardships. At 1.5 weeks out I am experiencing many of your same emotional ups ... Read more

Emily Shively Cristen, I can't believe its already been 6 weeks! Thank you for sharing your hardships. At 1.5 weeks out I am experiencing many of your same emotional ups and downs. My pain is minimal, but looking in the mirror is still tough. And if it weren't for my husband, I would not be able to get out of bed. Literally. He has to pick me up. :) I'm so glad that your blood tests ended up being ok. What a scary thought that right after you've put surgery behind you, something may be wrong with the valve again. Best of luck to you as you begin rehab. Take it slow!

Cristen Marzula Hi Tammi and Emily! I'm so happy to hear that you're both doing well = ) Thank you for your support and also for sharing your experiences - it's been so encouraging! ... Read more

Cristen Marzula Hi Tammi and Emily! I'm so happy to hear that you're both doing well = ) Thank you for your support and also for sharing your experiences - it's been so encouraging! Can you imagine how FANTASTIC we're going to feel next January?!

Tammy Pilcher Cristen, what a great post! I'm so glad you're doing well now! Your post will surely help those still waiting to know they can get through the hard days in ... Read more

Tammy Pilcher Cristen, what a great post! I'm so glad you're doing well now! Your post will surely help those still waiting to know they can get through the hard days in the beginning to reach the great days that will come! Best wishes on your continued progress!

Jim Kelly-Evans Thanks for the tough love, Cristen...I'll remember that you told me so in a few weeks when I'm having a bad day post op. Best wishes for smooth sailing with your recovery from now on.

Kathleen F. Cristen, your post is very timely for me, thank you. I'm 5 weeks post-surgery, and I'm "over" this chest soreness! And the crappy weather, snowstorms and ice have not helped my motivation to go for walks this week. I haven't jumped on a treadmill yet either, despite my initial happiness that my cardiologist said I could, last week. I'm trying not to get down about the fact that I've been eating chocolate for the past 4 days, and have gained a little weight, even though I had made a good effort to eat nutritious food when I first came home. Chocolate is my favorite painkiller/ anesthetic and I'm trying to cut back on Motrin! This recovery is a long haul, and I'm also starting to have some bad days with the good, as well. These might be like the "hard" miles in a marathon - the early adrenaline has worn off, and there's still a long way to go... sigh. Good luck to you; and thank you for sharing your experience.

Kimberly Biddick Cristen, thank you for your very realistic and detailed post about your experience thus far. It is good to hear not only that everyone recovers differently, ... Read more

Kimberly Biddick Cristen, thank you for your very realistic and detailed post about your experience thus far. It is good to hear not only that everyone recovers differently, but how it varies. I am still on the pre-surgery side and have the BAV and aneurysm, like you. I appreciate you sharing this so much. It really does help those of us waiting our turns. I hope each week sees you feeling better and better. You got this!!!

Bob M I pray that all of your recovery hurdles are behind you now. Take it easy heart sister.

Cheryl Batzing Cristen, wow. Thanks so much for your authenticity. It is so weird how we all heal differently. I'm so glad you are doing better, and taking it slow. I do ... Read more

Cheryl Batzing Cristen, wow. Thanks so much for your authenticity. It is so weird how we all heal differently. I'm so glad you are doing better, and taking it slow. I do pray for you and all our heart brothers and sisters as we are all on the healing journey, or those heading into surgery. And Im with you on my sadness for Lisa's passing. It helps me realize how fragile & precious life is.

While reflecting on this past week, it's incredible the progress I've made since last Friday in the ICU! Before being discharged from Cleveland Clinic this past Tuesday, I finally had the drive and commitment to take my first shower. The hospital of course has the best set-up for maximizing your safety (hand rail, shower seat, hand-held shower hose), so I highly recommend taking advantage of the amenities. Since I have hypotension, it was also comforting to have a nurse available to check my vitals once I was finished. Once again, I was VERY fortunate to have Michael's assistance, especially since he grew up with 3 sisters and knows how to wash long hair ; )

I was slightly anxious about being discharged 1 day ahead of schedule; however, it was nice to return to the comfort of my family's home. Though I enjoyed not being "poked" anymore, I did find the first 24 hours of pain management challenging. I considered weaning off the pain medications, but it's NOT practical and NOT worth it to suffer in pain! I've been strictly following the recommended dosage every 4 hours (even through the evening), and it has helped tremendously.

Happy Holidays and I'll continue to post through recovery. Best wishes to everyone as we enter a New Year in good health!

Elaine Foster So happy to hear you are doing well. I , too learned that painful lesson of trying to get off pain med too soon. I am 16 days out, and now on only Tylenol. ... Read more

Elaine Foster So happy to hear you are doing well. I , too learned that painful lesson of trying to get off pain med too soon. I am 16 days out, and now on only Tylenol. Do what you need to for your body. Rest plenty, and believe me you will see a huge improvement in another week. God Bless you

Bob M Cristen, what great news for you! It was a new day for you and your recovery looks great! God bless and rise up!

Nancy D one relaxes and walks and deep breathes better if pain controlled. Your body needs to rest between walks and deep breaths to heal. No hero medals given for ... Read more

Nancy D one relaxes and walks and deep breathes better if pain controlled. Your body needs to rest between walks and deep breaths to heal. No hero medals given for toughing it out...take the meds. Your body will let you know when you no longer need them. We all get better at different rates, and you will get better and find you don't need the meds. Take good care!!

Bill Hendrickson Best of good fortune for an excellent recovery. Thanks so much for sharing your experience at ccf. I hope my experience will be as good as yours.

Kathryn Waymire I would hate for the pain to keep you down, so as long as you have the medication stay comfortable. God Bless !

Rafael Martinez What about your sintoms before and after. Wich you the best.

Post-op Update: Monday Evening

Journal posted on December 22, 2014

Whew, it has been quite the journey! I'll try my best to give a quick run-through of events leading up to today. First off, my support group ROCKS = ) It's almost overwhelming at times to have so many people following my progress, but still GREATLY appreciated. My boyfriend Michael truly is such a wonderful man! I still don't know how my Mom and Michael put up with me in the ICU, but I'm sure I kept them quite entertained with some wild hallucinations from all the medication.

I was in the 2nd session of surgeries on Thursday. Check-in at the Cleveland Clinic was at 10am, and I was finally taken upstairs to start IV's around 1:30pm. Sam and my Mom, brother Matthew, Michael, and I had some good laughs during that time span. Humor is always the best medicine! I grabbed the side doors while being wheeled out just to give them one last giggle (the nurse however didn't find that too funny).

Prep went very quickly before being wheeled into the OR. My anesthesiologist made it a very comfortable transition. My last memory was briefly speaking with Dr. Roselli. He was in great spirits and rockin' a gold chain ... man, this guy is awesome! Haha He had a group huddle and my last words were, "GO TEAM!"

I woke up in the ICU relaxed, but still with my breathing tube inserted in my throat. Nurse Jacki was fantastic and gently guided me through the removal. I admit that the breathing tube was my greatest fear because I have a bad gag reflex - it was no problem at all. It was around 1am at this time, but I wanted to see my family and let them know I was okay. After a call from the nurse, my Mom and Michael quickly returned from the hotel (Intercontinental Suites is located within walking distance). They were so happy to share the results from my surgery. Dr. Roselli met with them post-op to explain that he called an audible once accessing the valve. Instead of a bicuspid aorta, I actually had a uni-cusp leaflet that he was able to repair verse replace. He salvaged the healthy section and replaced the diseased tissue with a portion of porcine material that my stem cells may actually replace. This ultimately means that I may never require another surgery for my new bicuspid valve - pretty phenomenal! I couldn't process any of this information at the time. This is when my crazy stories began. There were ants on the ceiling, my family's black lab came marching through the room, I pondered how my pudding cup was manufactured, and I had these vivid entrepreneurial ventures that made perfect sense. I slept in 5-10 minute segments my entire time in the ICU and consumed little food. I was very fortunate to have my own private corner room during those 2 days. I wanted my family there, but I was too medicated to properly communicate when they visited. I couldn't even focus to read or write until I was moved to a private recovery room late Saturday afternoon.

Prior to leaving the ICU, the drainage tube was removed from my chest, along with the jugular and artery ports. I was still heavily medicated and felt little discomfort. My pacing wires were removed Sunday. Though I still struggle with the pain radiating from my very small 3 inch incision site and muscular tension across chest/neck/shoulders, I feel comfortable standing and walking. My head feels very heavy, but I'm sure a lot has to do with the effects of pain medication and lack of nutrition.

I had my first follow-up echo and CT Scan with contrast today - everything is progressing nicely. My blood pressure is relatively back to "my normal" (98/55) and I may get to go home tomorrow. I still haven't had a BM, but getting ready to drink some prune juice before progressing to other tactics.

In closing, I can't speak more highly of the Cleveland Clinic and their medical staff. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else! Happy Holidays and will update again soon . I left a lot of details out, so please feel free to ask me any questions that you may have concerning recovery. Reading other patient's stories and Adam's book was invaluable in my preparation for this procedure.

Mark Alafita Wow, what a great write up. Thanks for sharing. I am so happy that your recovery is going well. And I certainly hope you get to go home soon. All the best, ... Read more

Mark Alafita Wow, what a great write up. Thanks for sharing. I am so happy that your recovery is going well. And I certainly hope you get to go home soon. All the best, and again, thank you for sharing all of the details, as it helps those of us who are preparing to go through the exact same thing

Cheryl Batzing Cristen, so glad your surgery was such a success! And you'll be home for Christmas! And wow with your support team. You are blessed!

Amy DiGiovanni Noack Yeah Cristen! I've been thinking about you and anxiously awaiting your post op feedback. I'm so happy to hear it went so well. I love your story! My fear is ... Read more

Amy DiGiovanni Noack Yeah Cristen! I've been thinking about you and anxiously awaiting your post op feedback. I'm so happy to hear it went so well. I love your story! My fear is that breathing tube too, but you just put me at ease! You have such a great attitude and high spirits and it's contagious. Please keep writing throughout your recovery so we can hear this experience through your words:) All my best to you for a speedy recovery.

Great news. Surgeries r so different, ie. my chest tubes and artery ports were still in after I left ICU. My chest tubes were actually in for four days. I ... Read more

Great news. Surgeries r so different, ie. my chest tubes and artery ports were still in after I left ICU. My chest tubes were actually in for four days. I am so glad to hear another great recovery story and successful surgery. Enjoy your holidays!!

Deb Bialecki Congratulations! So glad for you! Hope you have a wonderful holiday and now can look forward to many more in the future!

Tammi Gunwall What a great update! Thanks for sharing Christen. I've been praying your surgery and hospital stay had been good thus far. You definitely have a unique story ... Read more

Tammi Gunwall What a great update! Thanks for sharing Christen. I've been praying your surgery and hospital stay had been good thus far. You definitely have a unique story and I'm impressed you were able to remember so much of it. ;) Continue to keep us posted on how you are doing. You are inspiring all of us who are prepping for the surgery realm yet. Enjoy your holidays and resting at home soon!

To all my Friends and Family -
The day has finally arrived! I'm glad I waited to post until this morning because I'm truly in high spirits. I'll be heading over to the Cleveland Clinic at 10am for check-in. I'm appropriately dressed in my beloved University of Cincinnati attire and ready to do battle - it will be a "great day in Bearcat history!" ; ) I can't thank you all enough for your support during this time. Sending all my Love! XoXo Cristen

Bob M Today is a great new day for Cristen! We are all praying for you, heart sister Bearcat. God bless and rise up! Tomorrow, cherry Popsicle was awesome and eating ... Read more

Bob M Today is a great new day for Cristen! We are all praying for you, heart sister Bearcat. God bless and rise up! Tomorrow, cherry Popsicle was awesome and eating 3 meals in ICU really helped my recovery.